Prone position effect in intensive care patients with SARS-COV-2 pneumonia

Ventilation in the prone position (PP) has been used for decades in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and is associated with a reduction in mortality rate. Its application has been extended to patients with SARS-Cov-2 pneumonia and is recommended by the main international organizations. The objective is to evaluate the effects of PP on the outcomes of patients with SARS-Cov-2 pneumonia admitted to a multipurpose intensive care unit. This is a quantitative, quasi-experimental, single-group, longitudinal and retrospective study. Data were collected based on clinical records. Data were processed using SPSS (version 26.0). PP significantly increased oxygenation in patients with SARS-Cov-2 pneumonia, with a mean increase of 21.27% between the PaO(2)/FiO(2) ratio before and after the PP. However, its effectiveness was inversely proportional to the number of cycles performed and the timing of orotracheal intubation. PP improves oxygenation in patients with SARS-Cov-2 pneumonia. However, multiple PP sessions are not beneficial, as this procedure is no longer effective after the fourth cycle. This study thus contributes to better management in the approach of critically ill patients with SARS-Cov-2 pneumonia.